Sumathipala, who was released on bail pending an appeal, ran the island's official cricketing body between 1998-1999 and 2003-2004, and the offence stemmed from his first stint at the helm during the 1999 World Cup.

''He was convicted of having abetted a person ... to use a forged passport ... for the purpose of travelling overseas,'' said Deputy Solicitor General Yasantha Kodagoda, prosecuting for the state.

''He was convicted of the charge and was (sentenced to) two years rigorous imprisonment and a fine of 50,000 rupees (US$460).'' The jail term was handed down as the Sri Lankan team competes in the 2007 World Cup in the West Indies.